High-fliers too strong for Town

THERE was little surprise in the result at high-flying Long Buckby, who Town manager Brian Rowland rates very highly.

Missing from the Town line-up were striker Liam Tunstall (suspended), Michael Musson, Jamie Shaw, Pete Sutton and Jason Sedlan, while Ryan Oliver is still less than fully fit.

In came new signing Aaron Stirling, who has experience with Mansfield Town.

Rowland went for a five-man midfield, with Sam Husband as the lone man up front.

Right from the start it looked like damage limitation, with a final score-line just about right considering the form book.

The opener came after three minutes with yet another own goal. A cross from the right by Bunting was touched into the net by Joe Braithwaite.

Town keeper Doug Lindberg pushed a shot for a corner then made a good save from dangerous Michael Byrne. At the other end Charlie Ward had an effort saved before Lindberg saved again, this time from defender Craig Kelley.

Goal number two came on 28 minutes, although it looked suspiciously offside as Bunting went through to score.

Before half time Husband took a ball from Jamie McCormack to turn and shoot, bringing a save from the keeper. Lindberg then made a brave save at the feet of striker Russ Dunkley to keep it 2-0 at half-time.

Five minutes into the second half the home side scored again when Konya crossed for Dunkley to head in to make it 3-0.

Town switched to 4-4-2, with Ward pushed forward. Young Harry Ginniff, in his first start, brought a save from the home keeper.

Midway through the period Byrne rounded Lindberg for an easy finish. (4-0)

Defender Kris Jones pushed forward towards the end with Paul Ward now on for Joe Braithwaite.